How to succeed at GCSE Geography 1. Read the question • If a question asks you to describe, only describe DO NOT EXPLAIN! • ‘Describing’ questions usually do not have many marks so do not waste your time writing in too much detail. • Time is valuable in exams, use it wisely. Example 1 • This question asks you to give two examples. Do not be fooled by the space they have given you to write. • There is only 2 marks available. You will not be given extra marks for any explanations. LEDCs and MEDCs can be affected in the same way by global warming. Give two examples. Example 1 Example 2 2. Look at the marks • If you look at how many marks are available for the question this gives you some idea of how much you have to write and what to include. • For example, you will have to include more detail for a 4 mark question than for a two mark question. Example 2 • This question asks you to explain two effects and is worth 4 marks. • One mark will be awarded for each effect and another mark for each explanation. Explain two effects of global warming on the coastline of Vietnam. Example 3 • This question is worth 6 marks. It would be sensible to make 3 relevant points and give 3 good explanations to achieve full marks. How could some of Vietnam’s policies on global warming be considered a good example of ‘sustainable development’ Example 4 • Look at this DME question. There are 20 marks available. The question has given some guidance on what to include. State which plan would provide the most sustainable solution for the Maldive government and write about: •Your reasons for choosing this plan •Your reasons for not choosing the other plans •Possible problems with your chosen plan Example 4 (continued) You could break the marks down like this: • Reasons for choosing this plan 3 reasons with 3 explanations = 6 marks • Reasons for not choosing the other plans 1 reason for each of the other three plans with 1 explanation for each = 6 marks • Possible problems with your chosen plan 2 problems with 2 explanations = 4 marks Example 4 (continued) • It is always a good idea to evaluate when writing your DME answer. • The marks add up to 16. In order to gain the last 4 marks you could suggest a possible solution to the problems you have identified. • 2 advantages of plans that were rejected with 2 explanations = 4 marks • Always breakdown the marks and ensure you include an evaluation when writing extended answers. 3. Write neatly • Make sure that the examiner can read what you are writing. • An examiner does not want to spend a lot of time working out what words you have written and might even ignore important terms you have used because it is not legible. 4.Check your spag • Make sure you check your spelling, punctuation and grammar! • The examiner can award extra marks for correct use of spag. • This could make the difference between one grade and another! 5. REVISE, REVISE, REVISE! • Make sure you know all your topics thoroughly! • Organise your folder into sections and revise one section at a time. • It might help to devise a revision timetable. You could do this for each subject and set time aside for each topic. • Take a 5 minute break every 20 minutes. This will help you to concentrate and help you to remember more facts! And finally…. Relax, Don’t panic! You have all the knowledge! Show the examiner how you can apply your knowledge to the questions set.